2026 Ford Explorer

2026 Ford Explorer in Youngstown, OH

The 2026 Ford Explorer redefines the modern family SUV by injecting advanced digital connectivity, refined styling, and a rugged new personality into America's all-time best-selling three-row SUV. Catering to active families and weekend adventurers alike, the latest Explorer expands its versatility with a newly designed cabin layout, a broader array of premium textures, and the striking debut of an off-road-centric Tremor edition.

Dynamic Performance & Adaptive Capability

The 2026 Explorer maintains its reputably strong driving dynamics with a choice of two proven EcoBoost powerplants, both backed by a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission. The standard 2.3L EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivers an efficient yet responsive 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. For those craving performance-oriented driving dynamics, the ST and Platinum trims offer a 3.0L twin-turbocharged V6 that pumps out an assertive 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.

Rear-wheel drive comes standard to optimize handling and acceleration, while an intelligent four-wheel-drive system is optional across the lineup. Drivers can effortlessly toggle through specialized traction settings via the Terrain Management System, adapting the drivetrain for deep snow, sand, or trail environments. Regardless of the engine choice, every 2026 model comes standard with a Class III Trailer Tow Package, providing a maximum towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds.

Bold Exterior & the Rugged Tremor Edition

The exterior design updates give the Explorer a cleaner, more commanding road presence. A completely redesigned front fascia features a larger, more sophisticated grille seamlessly integrated with sleek LED signature headlamps. The rear changes include crisp LED taillamps that stretch cleanly into a redesigned liftgate.

The biggest addition for the model year is the adventure-ready Tremor trim. Geared toward serious trail exploration, the Explorer Tremor features an off-road-tuned suspension with increased ground clearance, underbody protection skid plates, all-terrain tires, and a specialized Torsen limited-slip rear axle for premium traction over loose shale and mud.

Refined Interior Comfort & Layout

Inside the cabin, the Explorer offers a complete rethink of material choices and ergonomics. The front dashboard has been pushed forward to increase open cabin space, and new soft-touch wrap materials drape the instrument panels and console surfaces. Buyers can choose between flexible six- or seven-passenger seating configurations featuring second-row captain's chairs or a split-bench seat.

Utility remains a core attribute, with a generous maximum cargo volume of up to 85.8 cubic feet available when both the second-row and third-row PowerFold seats are stowed flat. For long highway hauls, higher-tier trims treat front-row occupants to multicontour seats equipped with Active Motion massage capability.

Next-Gen Technology & Hands-Free Innovation

The technological centerpiece of the 2026 cabin is the debut of the Ford Digital Experience infotainment system, anchored by a prominent 13.2-inch center touchscreen display paired with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. This lightning-fast operating platform natively integrates Google built-in applications alongside wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Long-distance family travel becomes drastically more relaxed with the introduction of Ford BlueCruise on select trims. This advanced driver-assistance technology allows for true hands-free highway driving on validated stretches of interstate, complete with an Automatic Lane Change feature that initiates a pass simply by tapping the turn signal stalk.

Comprehensive Safety Networks

Passenger protection remains a foundational element of the Explorer platform, highlighted by a strong ultra-high-strength steel safety cage and a comprehensive seven-airbag system. Every model features Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ out of the box, wrapping the vehicle in a layer of active radar and camera defenses. Standard preventative safety measures include Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, a Lane-Keeping System, and a Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with integrated trailer coverage. Moving up to higher packages integrates a high-resolution 360-degree split-view camera array, making tight parallel parking or hitch alignment painless.